Arsenal have joined Atletico Madrid in the race to sign Borussia Dortmund playmaker Julian Brandt on a free transfer this summer, according to Marca.
The 29-year-old has been a key player for the German outfit for the past seven years, but he has decided to move on when his contract expires on June 30.
Atletico are now exploring a Bosman deal for the experienced attacker, but they are not alone in the pursuit, with the Gunners also considering a contract.
Marca mention that Arsenal are ‘one of his suitors’ and they are ‘expected to be in the running’ for his signature alongside several other European clubs.
Arsenal unlikely to pursue deal for Brandt
The German has had a decent campaign with Dortmund, registering 11 goals and three assists from 37 appearances across all competitions.
He has primarily played as an attacking midfielder for the Bundesliga outfit, but has also operated as a wide player in previous seasons.
His versatility in the final third should be an attraction for elite European clubs, but we doubt whether Arsenal are contemplating an offer for him.
Brandt will turn 30 in the first week of May. He is already on £117,000 per week and could easily demand close to £200,000 per week for a free transfer.
The playmaker may also want a huge signing-on fee to make the switch. This is probably a reason why Dortmund backed out of contract discussions.
Brandt could be past his prime in the next couple of years, and Arsenal may prefer to recruit a young number 10 rather than invest in his services.
The speculation could be agent-driven rather than Arsenal expressing an interest in the player.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Capology.com